Add a Memory
Send Flowers
Make a Donation
Erwin Erker Obituary
Erwin L. Erker and his wife, Ann, met when she worked at a McDonald's in Queens where he had once worked. They saw the film "Halloween" on their first date. "From then on, we were together," Mrs. Erker said.
Mr. Erker, 41, a vice president at Marsh and McLennan, used to plan vacations for the family, which includes Lauren, 13, and Andrew, 10. He had a soft spot for the cabins at Kampgrounds of America. He picked campgrounds near points of interest like Salem, Mass., Luray Caverns, and Dorney Park in Pennsylvania, Mrs. Erker said, recalling the trip when Big E (his nickname, for his large personality) stole her doughnut.
"Nobody owned up to it, but he had it," she said. "It was in his pocket. He was a sweets fanatic."
Their only bad vacation, she said, involved an uninvited mouse in a rented house when they went skiing one year. But it wasn't all bad: "We laughed all weekend."
"He always did things with the kids," she said. Lauren plays the trombone, and he liked attending her concerts and listening to her jazz festival CD. He went to Islanders games with Andrew, and they played basketball tournaments in Andrew's room, using a hoop attached to his closet door. It is still there.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
September 11, 2023
Erwin, you are remembered and your life celebrated. May the ones you loved be surrounded by peace and comfort. No matter how much time passes, we will never forget you and the other innocent victims. Rest in peace
Joe
September 12, 2021
Erwin.... you are not forgotten. 20 years since you were given the Angel Wings of 9/11.
Cindy Roe
September 11, 2021
Remembering Erwin on the 20th anniversary of 9/11...
Michele Castellano-Tracy
September 11, 2020
To the Family of Erwin Erker, please know that I am thinking about you all today. I am a former grammar school classmate of his and ALWAYS remember him and you on this day. Michele Castellano-Tracy
How you can show support
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
June 16, 2019
Take care with the angels, erwin.
A.L.
Wendy Frazier
September 11, 2015
I will never forget Erwin or his family. His beautiful daughter, Lauren, was in my 5th grade class only months before 9/11. It was Erwin who sat down with me at parent-teacher conferences and I admired his dedication to his children and family. Edwin and Lauren are constantly on my mind every September. The Erkers will never be forgotten.
Karen Shechter
September 11, 2014
Erwin was a good guy, didn't know him all that well but I know those he left behind. He is sorely missed by his family and his community. Peace to all.
Joann Erker
September 11, 2014
Family History of the Erker Family shows many stayed in New York.. God Bless..
September 14, 2012
My name is Erwin Cheldin. Since the first grade my friends have called me Erkie. I don't have a middle name so I guess I got used to being called Erkie. One on my copanies is named Erkie Inc. I was watching the TV memorial on 9-11-12 and saw Erwin's name The Erwin and the Erker sure caught my attention. Now here I am, looking at his site and would you believe I'm also in the insurance business. Wow, this is something. Well, I'm proud of him and his family. You are all so beautiful. You have sure touched my heart. God bless you all. Love, Erwin "Erkie" Cheldin
dan Napolitano
July 18, 2012
Dear Erker Family
My son Chris went to school with Andrew. I am presently coaching my youngest son in the up coming farmingdale baseball tournament, we would like to invite you to a game and participate in helping remember your loved one. The tournament starts next week and runs into august 11th. If you are intereste please contact me at [email protected]
Dakota
September 29, 2011
I'm sorry about the loss of Erwin L. Erker. He seemed to be a loving father who enjoyed spending time with his family. I'm glad that his family is able to have a successful life after he died. I hope that Lauren and Andrew will live a good long life and I'm sorry they lost their father at such a young age.
Valerie Carlson
September 8, 2011
I never had the privilege of meeting you Erwin but I was blessed with growing up with your wife and our family...God rest your soul and may we all learn from this ......watch over us please...
September 5, 2011
Just a note to let you know I am praying for the family of Erwin L. Erker. I didn't know Erwin personally but I know his family must still be grieving his loss. I know he is in heaven along with the other victims of this horrific tragedy!!
anita danielsen
April 24, 2011
I love and miss you everyday
Joe Solimeno
April 1, 2011
May 31, 1976 - Mets hosting the Pittsburgh Pirates in a Memorial Day Doubleheader. Erwin who was 4 years older than me led a group of us from Ridgewood to Flushing that day for the games. He was a good person who loved sports. It's a memory which will last forever.
mike maloney
March 31, 2011
Erwin just saw your kids at uncle bobs (father in law's) 75th birthday party this past weekend . they have grown up well and are great kids. you would be proud of them. Mike M.
Doug Abraham
July 15, 2009
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Kristine
October 30, 2006
As I cross-stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.
P Tabbernor
October 2, 2006
In memory....
Ivan Galic
September 11, 2006
Today marks the 5 year anniversary of my cousin Erwin's passing. Not a day has gone by that I haven't thought about or prayed for Erwin. He was a great father, husband, son, brother, cousin and friend. Rest in peace Erwin, and know that Ann, Lauren and Andrew are doing well and that we all miss you dearly.
Bert Erker
February 22, 2005
I miss my loved ones that wars have taken away. Time has helped ease the sorrow. I hope and pray that time and faith, will help ease your sorrow. We Will Never Forget. God Bless.
George Socci
September 11, 2003
GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY,WE WILL NEVER FORGET.GEORGE(POSTMAN)
Donna Cannonico
September 12, 2002
Erwin was married to my cousin Ann. I only met Erwin a few times over the years that they were married, but I recall that he was a very gentle, fun-loving person, a father who loved his children dearly and adored his wife. I remember the last time I saw Erwin approximately two years ago when several of our family members were gathered at the home of Ann's sister, Margaret. Erwin arrived at the house shortly after his wife and children and I recall the look on his face when he saw them. He was so happy to see Ann and his children (even though he had probably seen them just several hours before at the start of their school/work day). Erwin discussed the happenings of the day with Ann and Lauren and Andrew and then played and laughed with his nieces and nephews, as well as laughing and joking with his sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law. Through all of this he still made time to greet each of us and spend some time with us. I guess you could say he was "working the room," but I saw a man who loved his family and truly enjoyed their company, as well as the company of his extended family (even those of us that he did not often see). I felt as though I had known Erwin all my life. He made me feel welcome and comfortable.
I can't imagine the pain that Ann, Lauren and Andrew,as well as their entire family and Erwin's family (I only met Eriwin's Mom and sister at his memorial service) must experience on a daily basis. I pray that time will heal the wounds inflicted on you on September 11, 2001. I pray that you keep Erwin's memory close to your hearts, and that you continue to share your "Erwin" stories with Lauren and Andrew who have been robbed of a lifetime with their father. I know that Erwin is watching over all of you.
I will continue to pray for all of you and for all of the victims of 9/11.
With Love,
Donna Canonico
Chester, New York
Danielle V
September 11, 2002
Hello, my name is Danielle. I did not know Erwin Erker; all i know is that he lost his life on September 11, 2001, exactly one year ago. I am 15 years old and a sophomore in high school at St. Agnes Academy and at our school today, bracelets were handed out to each student and faculty member with the name and age of one person who passed away this day last year to remind us to pray for them and their family. My bracelet said Erwin L. Erker 41. Right when I read it, I got chills all over my body. It is hard to understand that this one small name on a bracelet was an actual person who lost their life. I wanted to let the family of Erwin know that my prayers are with you as well as the prayers from St. Agnes. We hope to remind you that you are not alone. Although I didn't know Erwin, his life has made an impact on mine. God bless!
When I find myself in times of trouble
Mother Mary comes to me
Speaking words of wisdom, let it be.
And in my hour of darkness
She is standing right in front of me
Speaking words of wisdom, let it be.
Let it be, let it be, let it be, Let it be
Whisper words of wisdom, let it be.
And when the broken hearted people
Living in the world agree,
There will be an answer, let it be.
For though they may be parted there is
Still a chance that they will see
There will be an answer, let it be.
Let it be, let it be, let it be, let it be, Yeah
There will be an answer, let it be
Let it be, let it be, let it be, let it be
Whisper Words of Wisdom, Let it be
Let it be, let it be, let it be, let it be
Whisper Words of Wisdom, Let it be
And when the night is cloudy,
There is still a light that shines on me,
Shine on until tomorrow, let it be.
I wake up to the sound of music
Mother Mary comes to me
Speaking words of wisdom, let it be.
Let it be, let it be, let it be, let it be.
There will be an answer, let it be.
Let it be, let it be, let it be, let it be
Whisper words of wisdom, let it be.
The Beatles- Let It Be
Clara Erker Trimboli
September 7, 2002
Erwin was my cousin and although we were not in close contact his loss is such a tragedy to our family. He was a dedicated family man with many great talents who is sorely missed. God Bless the family. May your soul rest in peace, Erwin.
Clara & family
Angie Campbell
April 25, 2002
I am so sorry for the loss of so many wonderful people. I did not know anyone who passed away on 9/11/01, but I pray for the families that are now missin someone and must now go on. Rest in peace forever and may God bless you and the ones that you left behind.
Margaret Schmidt
April 23, 2002
Erwin has always been a wonderful, friend, brother-in-law, uncle and godfather.
Ann met Erwin in 1979, and I met my husband Tom soon after. Tom and Erwin, or E as Tom called him, became fast friends. They would always speak about sports, work and of course, our family, as they were both new members to our already close family. We would go to baseball games together and just hang out. Erwin was always outspoken and loved to debate with me. We had some really good discussions throughout the years.
Erwin loved to surprise us at times. I remember clearly one Halloween when Erwin walked in wearing an E.T. mask, which really gave us a good laugh. Erwin was at our wedding in 1981 and at our home when we brought our daughter Margaret Regina home from the hospital in 1983. A year later, Erwin and Ann married and I was proud to be a part of their wedding. My son Thomas was born a year later and again, Erwin was there to welcome him. Erwin has been a support for our family through hard times such as illnesses and deaths, and joyous occasions such as weddings, anniversaries, communions and graduations. He was always there to help with anything that had to be done. He helped each one of us settle into our new homes. I think Erwin’s handy work is still a part of our homes, whether it was his painting, wall papering or fixing computers. He has also been there for each of my children. He has attended ball games, sat through dance recitals and step-ups. Erwin was a strong, caring and wonderful man. Passionate in his beliefs he was always non-judgmental.
Over the years we have gone away together. In our early years even before we were married, we went as a family to Wolf’s were Tommy and Erwin roomed together. Over the years our most fun has been going to Rocking Horse Ranch. We have been going every year as a family for at least the last 14 years. In addition to our immediate family we have our extended family and many friends. Over the last few years Uncle E would take my son, Thomas, skiing on the Friday we arrived at the ranch, this became a special time for them. In fact it was Uncle E who taught Thomas how to ski. As many people have mentioned to me his presence was greatly missed at the ranch this year. He was always walking around talking to people, making them laugh. You could find him watching football, watching the kids on the ski slope or even tubing. You could tell he just had a great time and enjoyed being with everyone.
Erwin meant a lot to my children. They had a good time with him and will always remember their uncle, each in their own way. Margaret said she could go to him to talk and knew he would keep her confidence. She always appreciated that he took the time to see her in shows he would normally not go to, of course until he had his own daughter.
Thomas loved and felt so much love from Uncle E that he told me at the age of 5 or 6 that Uncle E was his Godfather. Although Erwin did not christen Thomas, in my son’s heart Uncle E was his true godfather and of course Erwin stepped up and filled that roll. When Thomas was confirmed, it was Erwin who sponsored him, so “he could really be my godfather.” Both my children will miss him, but they have many memories.
When we lost Erwin I was afraid he died not knowing how we (I) felt about him.
Erwin, you were truly loved by each of us. You were an enormous part of our lives and we now have a huge hole in our family. You were not only a brother-in-law, but also a brother, uncle and godfather. You will always be in our thoughts and prayers. We can still feel your presence, love and support for our family. We know you are still watching over us all. We miss you so very much.
With All Our Love
Margaret, Tom, Margaret Regina & Thomas
Charlie Viana
March 13, 2002
Big E......
Baseball season will never be the same without you. I miss your humor
Erwin. May you see all the games you want in heaven. RIP
Donna Scheeler & family
March 12, 2002
I am a long-time neighbor of Ann Erker's Parents & her sister Margaret's family. I have seen the anguish that this tragedy has brought to such a peace-loving and gentle man's world and to those he loved so dearly. I have also seen the love and support they give to each other, not just since Sept. 11th, but all through these years. They are a close knit and loving family and wonderful neighbors; I feel fortunate to be counted among the multitude of people who's paths have crossed Erwin's life and the lives of those he cherished. We must never forget.....May God forever bless this family and keep them safe and strong.
Anonymous
January 15, 2002
DEAR LORD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON ERWIN
L.ERKER AND MAY HE REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS
HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS..GOD BLESS
AMERICA AND MAY WE NEVER FORGET 9/11/01..AMEN
Teresa Jahn
January 3, 2002
America Cries
We see your sorrow-
and our hearts cry....
We can not erase your pain
but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-
-the American people-
are beside you.
We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,
the strength that gives you courage,
and the words to lighten your spirits.
And when we are left speechless
may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts
to ease your sorrow.
May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-
-the American people-
face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn
Dixon, IL
Lynn Giackette
November 29, 2001
I worked at Marsh in Data Control for Fred Kern, also Erwin's boss. I remember meeting Ann, his wife. Erwin was always so upbeat and lively and ready to go out and take on anything. My heart goes out to Ann and the children.
Paul Giovanniello
October 28, 2001
Erwin,
Although I haven't seen you in about 20 years I sill remember you.My prayers go out to your family who I know is very torn up with their loss.May God hold you close and help us all heel from this tragic event.
Showing 1 - 33 of 33 results
Make a Donation
in Erwin Erker's name
How to support Erwin 's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Erwin Erker's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
Sponsored